If your dog is pregnant, it is essential that you take care of her throughout the pregnancy. You will have to prepare the entire delivery so that she can give birth to her puppies in a pleasant, clean and calm environment. If your pet’s diet is adequate and he has good veterinary care, he will surely be able to give birth to his puppies without any inconvenience. Here are some tips to take care of your pregnant dog.
Go to the vet
If you suspect that your dog is pregnant you should go to the vet as soon as possible. This way, you will be able to know the date on which you will give birth and talk about any changes that are necessary in the medication. On the other hand, your vet could also determine if your dog is having a psychological pregnancy.
Ultrasound machines can visualize puppies at approximately 3 weeks of pregnancy. In addition, the veterinarian can count the fetuses to know the number of puppies in the womb. In this way, you will know if all the puppies are healthy when your dog gives birth.
Give him adequate food
When your dog is in the fifth or sixth week of gestation, you should give her a specific food for puppies or pregnancies, since it contains higher amounts of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and minerals.
On the other hand, in this period you should increase the amount of food to your dog by 20% and another 25% by the end of her pregnancy. However, you will have to consult it previously with your trusted veterinarian.
Continue with the daily walks
Daily walks are a great low intensity exercise for pregnant dogs. Most dogs can continue their daily walks during their pregnancy.
If your dog used to jog before she got pregnant, she can continue to jog for the first six weeks of pregnancy. However, after the sixth week you will have to stop jogging and focus only on daily walks.
Make a birthing box
Your pet needs a safe place to give birth to her puppies. Therefore, a good option is delivery boxes. They are soft beds surrounded by relatively high walls. You can also buy it at a pet store or make it yourself from plywood or plastic.
The birthing box should be large enough so that your bitch can fully stretch (and get all the puppies). Likewise, it is essential that the walls are high to prevent the puppies from going out until they are not six weeks old.
